Me personally, I started losing the most weight after reading the book Woman’s weight loss secrets: the unspoken truth, a few things you are mentioning in this video are also in the book
My husband had gastric bypass surgery and I get so mad when people say it’s the easy way out. He’s lost a lot of weight, but he works at it every single day. I think it’s a very brave choice. You are an inspiration!
I have never been overweight in my entire life (in fact, I have struggled with the opposite problem), but even I can see that there is NOTHING easy about that! Asking for help and admitting that you're struggling with something that our society stigmatizes is not easy. Going through the process to get approved for the surgery, actually getting the surgery, recovering from major surgery and all of the lifestyle changes afterward is not easy. And dealing with other people's judgment certainly doesn't make it easy! I think he's incredibly brave and strong for taking that step, and I hope it has been a positive experience for him with (relatively) few side effects. I know recovery from that can be rough...
Yes! 20 years later after RNY I would do it again a thousand times! Everything you said is right on the money. I lost close to 200 pounds and I still fluctuate between 140 and 150. I’ll be 62 soon and have no health issues at all! You bring so much joy and fun to your videos and I love watching you!!
After a lifetime of judgment, it's hard to just decide to love yourself and not care what others think. Thanks for sharing your story. You're not alone 😊
I have tried for 30 years to get insurance approval to get weight loss surgery. I had given up and topped out at 286#. Watching you go through your surgery inspired me to try again. I am now 2 months post-op, down 56# from my all time high (35# since surgery). Thank you for being my inspiration 💕
Thank you thank you for talking about this, sharing YOUR story, and making it OK to talk about this surgery. It should NOT be a shameful topic. So proud of you, and you are my inspiration! xoxo
I haven't finished watching yet... But as a health care professional it just makes me so sad that a hospital supervised weight loss program was basically an endorsement of an eating disorder! You are beautiful through and through 💜
That was my exact thought! How on earth could any Dr recommend an all liquid 800 cal diet for an adult!? That's absurd! It makes me so sad that a medical professional would recommend that...
I suffer with hoshimotos and I just had gastric bypass done for a lot of the same reasons as you Cass. It hasn't even been 2 months yet and I'm down 40lbs. You are amazing at everything you do Cass.
Boy…do I understand. I’m morbidly obese. My BMI is too high for me to have knee replacement surgery; talk about humiliation. Did this feeling last? No. Girl, there’s a book in this. You are an inspiration to many, so please consider writing a book about your experience. Love you, my favourite TH-camr💜
*You are such a compassionate and empathetic woman!* I am so admiring of all you've achieved in spite of your challenges. Your passion and excellent work ethic has served you very well. God bless you always.🥰
This is by far the best weight loss journey story I have seen. So real, so honest and I feel like you are me minus the surgery part. Thank you for being real and articulating how so many of us feel. Congrats and thank you again.
Cas I know exactly how you feel. In 2002 - I had that same exact surgery. I went from 320 down to 125 in just about a year. It's something we still have to work on everyday but not like before the surgery. I have not had any soda or anything that is carbinated. I do stay away from sweets, carbs are my downfall, meat is very hard to eat. I would do my surgery over again! You keep up your good work and you are beautiful inside and out! - Love you!
@@blessedgirlsr5856 I was 47 at the time and went to the gym EVERYDAY it did help but yes I do have saggy skin in different areas but I am so much healthier I can do so much with our grandchildren and greatgrandchildren that I really don't think I would be alive today if I didn't have the surgery. I know it is not for all and like Cas's husband my husband didn't want me to do it as he thought I would die, but he is so happy now as we can be active and enjoy so much more than we did before the surgery In 2000 we went to the beach with our grandchildren and they wanted me to go horse back riding with them and I was over the weight limit. I swore at that point I was going to do everything I could to loose the weight so I would never have to tell them I couldn't do fun things with them. At that point I had never heard of bypass surgery - 2 years later I saw I believe one of the Wilson girls talking about it and at that point there was no stopping me. I was very lucky as my insurance paid 100 percent for it. I had to go thru 6 months of psychiatric evaluations and so many other evaluations that I can't remember. But now I can swim, run, and play with the little ones that I love so much and they will remember me when I'm gone because I was in their lives. I guess what I'm trying to say is loose skin is nothing compared to having a healthy life.
I had alot of skin loosen. But it all came back. Lol, if ya get my drift...I don't work out and wish I did! But, Cas is amazing for sharing her journey! I ❤️ her so much!
I just have to say that your story at the end had me almost crying with laughter and pity. I used to be a nail-biter, and every once in awhile I revert back to my bad habits. Thanks for sharing! It was the perfect way to end the video that was so honest and genuine with some tough emotions.
"It's like sniff a cupcake and it's right on my butt"! 😂😂😂 I can super relate to this. I had PCOS and I could NOT lose weight! No matter what I tried. I was also struggling with infertility and decided to get RNY surgery in 2007. I'm so glad I did it! I was able to conceive and have 2 beautiful children!! I had to work super hard to lose weight after having my children. But since I had the surgery, it was actually possible. I don't know if people realize how impossible it is when your body is fighting you every step of the way!! You were beautiful before the surgery and I loved watching your channel back then. But, it is more than just the outside appearance. It is physically so hard to be overweight as well. Thank you for sharing your story!
Thank you for sharing your journey. You are 100% right, it's like there's a war going on in your mind when you struggle with weight. I constantly find myself being judged/treated differently and it sickens me bc I know it's not "just in my head." I was teeny tiny skinny in my teens and 20s like size 4/6 but now that I am plus sized I can tell people treat me way differently. It's sad but true.
I loved this talk, I was diagnosed with hashimotos 6 years ago. My battle with weight has lasted my whole life, and like you said, those who have never fought that battle might not understand the disgust, the emotions and hate you battle with yourself. 4 months ago I had gastric bypass and have lost 70 pounds. It is definitely not the easy way out, but I would do it again over and over. I am grateful in this day and age we have the medical knowledge we do, although here in America mine was not covered by insurance!😬 Anyways, thank you for sharing your story!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Also in the U.S. and I am considering the same, as it feels as if I have fallen into quicksand. My insurance does not cover it either. May I ask the approximate cost and where you had it done? Please know you are not expected to answer if it makes you uncomfortable.
@@strll3048 I don't mind at all! It was 25 grand and I had it done with Mercy Health in Warren, Ohio since I live an hour from there. I had a great experience!
You should read the book Hashimoto's Protocol by Izabella Wentz (I borrowed it from the library). Hashimotos effects so much more than just your weight and doctors have always told me that I will just always feel bad for the rest of my life and there's nothing that can be done about it, but that's not true.
I SO relate to this!! The internal war, the constant obsession over food & exercise, the depression & self-loathing. I dont have the option of surgery, but Im glad you found a solution that helps you love yourself.
Cass you inspired me....I've got my bariatric referral! Although I'm much older (51) and wish I had not let it get this bad. I was a firefighter for 5 yrs once! But you help me be more organized and inspire me so much!!!
@@CraftTgurl How did you find it at that age? I'm 48 and 112kg and after a lifetime of doing everything I can to lose weight I'm wondering if it's time for surgery.
I suffered with anorexia from the age of 11 until age 22 (I’m 25 now) but it’s so interesting how you talk about the thought process you had because it was very similar to my thinking process while having an eating disorder. I think the main take away is that we all need to be content with the body God has given us and just focus on being healthy. Thank you for sharing your story Cass!!
Oh my gosh. I was anorexic for more than 10 years. Now, I’m 230lbs! I will say after decades of fluctuating, I will gladly be overweight instead of anorexic again. Of course, I’d like to be at a healthy weight. But, I wouldn’t go back to that hell for any weight!
I was gonna say. Very similar. Terrified of what to put in your mouth, thinking about your body and losing weight every second of every day. Excessive exercises because of guilt. I used to be obese. Lost the first 20 kgs kinda healthily then slowly slipped into an ed. I was considered ana for a period of my life. I had the same mentality I did when I was obese it was terrifying but also it opened my eyes. It doesn’t matter how much I weigh it’s all in my head. I needed to learn to love my body and I am trying everyday to not pressure myself into losing or gaining and understand not to be hard on myself :)
Those of us who have struggled with weight & body issues since childhood can really relate to the freakin’ constant-ness of it. It is never not on your mind. You are exactly right that it impacts everything you do. It is exhausting. Thanks for sharing your journey!!
This was the most vulnerable I've seen you and I appreciate it so much. This is so many of us (there are several parallels with your story and my own). I've hit a crisis point with my health and weigh loss can cure much of it. Seeing how much you GET IT, and the fact that you've lost it, inspires me SO MUCH. Thank YOU.
Your journey is wonderful! Thank you for sharing ❤️ you are an inspiration! Not only for weight-loss but I have been ignoring my home for the last 7 years (I lost my son in a car accident) and just got into a major slump. I will have you know I spent the last weekend 3whole days in my basement cleaning!!! I filled a dumpster overflowing and a van full of donations! And I owe that to you, I would give you a huge hug if I could🤗 THANK YOU!
You are an inspiration Cas. I was thin until I hit my 30s and got married. Life, surgery, kids - it all happened and I find myself at 250 pounds. Your words are spot on .... every moment of every day, my thoughts and actions are tied to my weight. I hate that I let it define who I am .... and I always wonder if others are judging me because of my weight. Wishing you all the best as you tackle losing those pounds and leaving sugar in the rearview mirror!!
I had weight loss surgery (sleeve) in 2022. Best decision I’ve ever made. I’m 8 months out and am 90lbs down since my start (30lbs before surgery, 60since) it is NOT the easy way out. Cutting out part of your stomach and the mental reprogramming you go through is NOT easy. Super proud of you for doing what was best FOR YOU!
What a wonderful testament, thank you for sharing your journey!. Your rendition of your experiences will resonate with many, and as a physician I can tell you, you are spot on. About everything. What saddens me is how us, the medical community, have failed you, how we have failed all. I mean, I even failed myself. OBESITY IS NOT A CHOICE. And until we are all able to understand this, we will not be able to overcome it. Obesity is a complex medical condition, a metabolic derangement, and should be recognized and treated as such. It has little to do with will power, motivation and self worth, and yet it deeply affects all these. We have failed to address this medically as the metabolic.condition it really is. So it saddens me that you had to endure that 3 month long torture of very low.calorie diet, that ended setting you up for regain and disappointment. Bariatric surgery is most definitely a viable tool and option for many. And just like you said, it is NOT an easy or simple "way out". It is the most effective treatment that we have for the management of obesity and I believe it is being underutilized. But notice I said for the MANAGEMENT of Obesity, not the CURE of obesity. And this is the missing piece. We are failing our post bariatric patients by not emphasizing that having the surgery is ONE of part of the treatment modalities in the management of obesity. That surgery should be part of a comprehensive approach to the management of obesity and part of a treatment plan that should last for a lifetime, along with nutritional education, formulating sustainable exercise/movement/physical activity, addressing mental health and working on our mindset and limiting beliefs that got us to this place, and addressing and preventing regain by having close medical follow up, monitoring, including blood work, and treatment, including adding medications that help with weight maintenance and help prevent or minimize weight regain. This is all possible. But most of us are not doing this. I often explain this to patients in this context: in patients with diabetes, for example, do we tell them to stop their regularly scheduled follow up appointments and blood work once they are well-controlled? Do we stop their medications once they have achieved the treatment goals? Do we just stop everything and send them on their way with a farewell and good luck??!! NO WE DON'T!! But yet this is what we do with our patients suffering from obesity. And notice my choice of words here. We HAVE obesity. We are NOT Obesity and thus we should not define ourselves as obese but instead that we have obesity. I myself have struggled with obesity throughout my life and finally decided to proceed with bariatric surgery. It changed my life and my practice of medicine. The research I did, personally, prior to having the surgery (this is typically NOT common knowledge among physicians) is what enlightened me and prompted me to seek board certification in Obesity Medicine and is now my driving force into transitioning to practice solely in this field. I am making it my life mission to promote this awareness and to making myself available to people like us that need this guidance from a licensed physician. It is my dream and currently striving for it. Thank you, thank you, thank you, for using your platform to create awareness, by being vulnerable enough to share your story. I absolutely commend you for it!! BTW, I am a super fan and am addicted to your videos and teachings 🥰 kudos! And hugs!!!
Thank you so very much for leaving your comment. There are no words to describe how much of a failure an overweight person feels when they try everything and yet the weight hangs on. People think it's a lack of self control or just laziness. You are judged by others including the very doctors that you seek help from. The deep pain so many of us feel is truly heartbreaking ing. Thank you again for your insightful words.
@@ailismarrero3445 You are amazing. We need a world full of people just like you. I'm fighting many chronic issues including trigeminal neuralgia and back problems that has kept me homebound for 5 years. I'm 5 lbs in the so called BMI obese category. 5 stupid pounds. I would love to just get into the overweight category. I'm so tired of my doc telling me just stop eating fried foods even though I've repeatedly explained that I don't eat them at all. I live on a soft food diet. When your overweight and say you have tried so hard but can't lose it doctors look at you like you are lying. I had a doctor tell me once that since my husband was fairly thin and I'm cooking for him then I must be eating everything in the house. 😥. I'm sorry this is so long and you may never get to read it but I wanted you to know how very much YOU are appreciated. Now you go out there and continue your mission and please help us to no longer feel like a total useless failure.
Thanks so much for adding your insightful comments. I got as much out of reading this as I did from Cass’ inspiring video! I’m in the process of preparing for surgery in 4 months & I’m still to decide on RNY or Gastric Sleeve. I feel lucky to have found a surgeon & the team who work for him, who seem as understanding as yourself. I was wondering after my appointment yesterday why I felt so at ease at this doctors offices-this was literally the most relaxing place I’d been to & I realised it was because I felt absolutely no judgment about my weight! It shocks me how accustomed I have become to experiencing judgement EVERYWHERE I go, including when I go to other doctors clinics. Thank you so much for the wonderful work you are doing to help people with obesity-it heartens me to read your kind words and even more because you are a physician.
I'm confused?! How (in most cases) is obesity not a choice?? I too was told I had a "thyroid " problem, I was 315lbs 40yrs old and hurt all over!! I was lazy!!! Once I started moving I lost 100lbs in 3 months racking leave everyday for 1 summer, no diet changes, just moving!! That was my choice!! Once I stopped doing that I gained it all back, again it was the choices... I made! It was a bad choice, but nevertheless, There IS always a choice.
Oh Cass I know this struggle. You have described my whole life. Yes my smallest was 159. and I felt great. I have put back on 35 lbs. I am almost 6 years since my surgery. I have been beating myself up over the gain. I am terrified I am going to be 300lbs again.
I have no words to describe how amazing you are. It doesn’t matter what the topic is but you are so real and relatable. It is inspiring. Because the things I’ve watched you for, the organizing, cleaning and weight issues. All of them are from such a personal place that the main strain advice can sometimes make you feel worse and results in circle of challenges. But you say things so real. You can tell that, not only you have been through it, but you don’t want other people to go through these same awful things. So I find myself going “yea, that’s right, I can do this!” And actually doing them. Please don’t ever stop your positive, funny, motivating messages.
I’m crying as I watch this. I know how you feel. My daughter had weightloss surgery and I am on Mounjaro for weight loss. I’m so grateful for you talking about this ❤ I have ballooned, lost, ballooned , lost. It’s been a life long struggle.
Thank you for this post. I'm 275lbs and literally feel like I'm dying. I'm type 2 diabetic and severely insulin resistant so I take a mass amount of insulin. The more insulin you take the more weight you gain. The more weight you gain the more insulin you have to take. I'm in a no win situation and to big to exercise. I'm scheduled for weight loss surgery but in the US it can take up to 6 months for approval. I'm scared to death of the surgery but I can't live like this any longer. You gave me so much relief and inspiration. I can do this! Thank you!!
Please read Dr Jason Fung's book "The Obesity Code" or "Life in the Fasting Lane." It will be so encouraging for you. It is not your fault that you have gained weight. You are exactly right that it is the insulin resistance. Maybe you could ask your doctor if intermittent fasting could help you while you wait for your surgery?
If you like to read, I highly recommend you check out the book "proteinaholic" by Dr Garth Davis. He's a bariatric surgeon and talks about using a whole food plant-based diet before bariatric surgery as well as it being a successful tool to lose weight after the surgery and to keep it off rather than rebounding ❤️❤️❤️
My husband is almost 500lb and currently giving weight watchers coupled with trauma therapy a try. But I'm scared that it's too big a mountain to climb without surgical help. (We've on and off been trying to help him with his weight since we met 15 years ago.) But I have been following Cas for 6 years and it showed me how hard and complication-full weight loss surgery is. I want to grow old with my husband and I am so scared to lose him. Cas is right that being overweight affects every aspect of his life. He is constantly judged for his weight, he barely has the energy to interact with our children. I'm not sure what the right move is.
OMG...your video was like watching my gastric bypass experience unfold in front of me. I had my RNY surgery in Oct 2019 as well. Best decision I ever made but almost 3 years later, my confidence is disappearing after gaining 30lbs. I’m working on losing the weight I gained and feel inspired watching your journey. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you Cass, you made me cry…..I had never heard anyone express so eloquently the way I feel about my weight! Love ya! I’m so happy for you!! Keep it up, you can do this!! ❤️❤️
Thank you for sharing. I’ve had the gastric bypass surgery 15 years ago and I gave gained about 40 lbs. yes I too will do it again if given the chance. Again thanks for sharing! 💙
Thank you for sharing this. I've always struggled with my body image, and find myself struggling with it now more than ever at age 47. A war against yourself is the best way to describe it. I'm so glad you've found some peace and are starting to heal.
I just love your honesty. I wish more people on TH-cam would be like you, speaking the truth even when it's hard in order to help others. You are a beautiful human being!!
*Thank you for motivating others to pursue their health goals and showing that it's possible to make incredible changes with determination and consistency.*
When you talked about the need to lose weight being a WAR in our minds constantly, that is soooo true. I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels that way.
Oh Cass, You're so serious in the beginning, but hilarious in the end. I can relate to your weight loss issues. I'm sure your story will inspire others, thank you for sharing. Regarding the nail biting concoction, I should get it and put it on my freezer door handle so I stay out of the ice cream. Hmm, a weight loss product??? 'Love you
You can’t even imagine how close to home this is to me…..thank you so much for sharing this incredibly difficult topic!! Thanks for being an inspiration and using the words that are so painfully difficult for many of us to be able to hear let alone speak the words!! To literally speak Half these words for many, are not even in our vocabulary!!! 💕🤗
THANK YOU!! You explained the feelings of being overweight so well. I'm the heaviest that I've ever been, the struggle is real and I hate going shopping, I wanted to go to a jewellery store and I talked myself out of it thinking about how people might judge me and the ring I wanted to buy because I'm so overweight. I really appreciate that you took the time and put your story out there for everyone to understand 💕
Thanks so much for this video! Your story mirrors my own, from the pre-surgery emotions to the post-surgery euphoria. I am now one year post gastric bypass, and I've experienced some minor regain, but I still need to lose about 30 pounds, so I don't want to go in the wrong direction! After watching your video, I feel encouraged to keep moving toward my goal!
Oh my gosh you could be telling my story. I had the sleeve surgery on Christmas Eve 2019 so I too am coming up on my 3 year anniversary. I lost 80 lbs but have gained 20 back. I now have 70 pounds to lose to get to my goal. I love that you are so open about your journey!
Congrats on your surgery and thanks for sharing your story! After a lifetime of diets, I had WLS over a decade ago and lost over 110 pounds. It's the best thing I ever did. There's no "wrong" way to lose weight. And statistically speaking our chances of keeping the weight off long term are highest after surgery.
I felt like you were telling my story! This is everything I've gone through since I was a child. I remember the health nurse at school telling me I was a "solid girl" when I had one of the health checks they made us stand in line for. I was a very athletic teenager but always larger than any of my friends. You give me hope! I, too, had GBS, and I'm sorry to say I gained all but 50 lbs of my weight back. Thank you for your honesty and transparency! You get me!
❤️As a long time super-fan of Casssndra’s compassionate & fun ADD & decluttering advice, I started this video out of curiosity. By the end I was in tears. Church kind of tears. For the love & acceptance & hope she spreads all over the place. 🥰🤗😭🫶
Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I always appreciate your honesty & realness. I felt this on every level & I too had a BMI of 41. I am 5 weeks post-op from gastric sleeve surgery, down 35lbs. I still have 85lbs to lose to reach a healthy BMI.
I am 9 days post-of from VSG and down 17 lbs. It’s been going great and I’m doing great. Love seeing this and the struggles you went through. I am definitely seeing it as a tool and not the magic fix. I’m excited to see where I am in a year from now. Great job on your success! 🥰
Those curls in your hairstyle in this vid really suit you! You have such a pretty face Cass, and I’ve always noticed that about you at all your different weights. Thank you for sharing your journey xx
Thanks so much for sharing, Cass! In the past 8 months, I have taken off 55 lbs. My "why" had everything to do with it. I lost my best friend who had diabetes FOR DECADES (I never knew for at least 15 of those years and our favourite activities usually involved cheesecake and large tubs of buttery popcorn at the movies). She never took it seriously. Well, as they say, everything is fine...UNTIL IT ISN'T. She had other health issues, but a heart attack in January 2020 changed everything and I watched her slowly deteriorate until her death in 2021. The very next day, I walked into a weight-loss clinic (in Ontario). It was the BEST decision I've ever made! It was strict, intrusive at times (lots of monitoring), and very expensive! But I had money saved for travel and I wasn't able to do any of that, so it was money well spent. I started maintenance this past May and so far, so good...but I'm nervous! I get a weekly "cheat meal" -- it gives me something to look forward to! I have mixed feelings with the "love yourself" trend towards weight that is predominant these days, mainly because I am older and at the end of the day, I want my remaining "golden years" to be filled with activity and independence. You look amazing and I LOVE your channel!
Thank you for sharing your story. As someone who struggles with her weight, I appreciate how real you are about it. Also, your story at the end -- horrific but hilarious!!
Thank you for sharing your story with us! I’ve watched your experience while you went through this. Almost 2 years ago I started on a weight loss journey of my own. I started doing a program and it was the only thing that ever worked for me. I lost 55 pounds in 5 and a half months and 40 inches overall. I couldn’t believe how much better I felt. I had energy that I hadn’t had in years. Then I went off program, I maintained and then I wasn’t. Okay gained 20 pounds back. I am back on program and this time it’s not as easy but slowly the weight is coming off. This time I am working on the mental aspect that I should have done the first time 😊 Slowly I am taking steps towards a healthier version of me! I was in this adorable boutique and saw a top. The shop owner was like honey, that’s not your size! I as like, huh? She says this is our extended sizes. Your size is over there in the standard size section. I was still like, huh?? Me? Standard size? Oh yeah, I was no longer in a plus size, I was in a size 10. Hadn’t been that size since high school 😂
Body Dysmorphic Disorder - common when you've been heavy your whole life. You don't realize that you don't have to shop in the W side of the store any longer.
@@triciac1019 I can relate. Up to age 30 I was a normal weight. Since then my weight has steadily increased up & up! So when I see photos I get shocked at how big I am now. 😧😰 Now in my mid 60s. Where I live even though there is "universal" (not really - lots of co-payments!!) Government funded health care, bariatric surgeon is Not available if one is over 55! (could be 50)? VERY! Age discriminatory I think!!
Best thing I ever did was reading the book Woman’s weight loss secrets: the unspoken truth, after applying the knowledge I got from the book I feel like the cellulite is magically disappearing from my body
You are a month ahead of me. I had sleeve surgery in November 2019. 5'4" 227 highest. I'm now at 148. Lowest was 128.8. Most of the regain happened in January due to a massive hormonal shift. I know myself and know not to pick up sugar or carbs (that will turn my carb monster back on in a heartbeat.)...so that's not been the problem for me. Being post menopausal is...plus being able to eat more now...and NOT exercising. Anyhoo...good luck to both of us on getting back to that 135-140 goal weight. :) Like you, I would still do it all again!
@@Clutterbug You can do it. It was the hardest thing I've ever done, nearly died from complications due to unknown deformities, I would do it again tomorrow! I had it in 2001, weighed 280 lbs lost 160 and have gained back all but 60lbs. I know I can get it back off, it's the food I eat that's non painful and fast. Im trying to Stay away from the sugar and carbs, forever our enemy's! Protein, protein, protein! Proud of you for sharing your story... skinny people just don't get it.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I have been overweight for most of my life and relate to so many parts of your story. You have always been an inspiration to me-whether it’s cleaning and organizing or sharing this journey. I wish you continued success in all areas of your life.
So proud of you, Cas. Making longterm changes to improve your life is hard! You have to make that choice to commit to yourself so many times every day. Thank you for sharing your journey with us!
Thank you for the story! It was great having the update. I remember you going thru this. I had my RNY in 2009 and people told me the same things... I was taking the easy way out! Just do it right on your own. Be strong. Determined, etc. Without the surgery, I wouldn't be alive today! I lost 170 pounds. It is NOT the easy way though.... it is only a tool! You have to change you whole way of eating, or you will gain weight back!!! I have maintained about 140-150 pounds lose!
I had surgery a year a go and it is so nice to hear someone else though process around it because I often feel so alone in this. And it’s not easy but totally worth it
Sounds almost exactly like my weight loss story. I had rny April of 2021. I've lost 115 lbs & I can eat more now than I could a year ago & it scares me. I'm afraid of waking up & gaining all my weight back. I too could have never lost it all on my own. I tried for many years. It's totally saved my life & I too would do it all again. Thanks for sharing your story!
As I sit here taking my morning blood sugars and logging my daily weight for my medically monitored keto program I COMPLETELY identified with this! Therapy, reiki and whatever else it takes to get my food addiction under control. We are in this together and we will win one way or another.
I just celebrated my 7 month anniversary for my sleeve gastrectomy. I was like you, I just couldn't lose weight and got up to 309 lbs. I finally decided on surgery even though I thought it was the "easy" way. I agree, it's not the easy way out. My diabetes doctor tried for years to get me to do this but I just wasn't ready. I''m so glad I did cause I've lost 98 lbs so far. Congrats to you on your weight loss.
As a dietitian I will say the key is lifestyle change. You have to make healthy eating your life. Even with weight loss surgery you can gain the weight back. You can’t cheat the habit changes.
Yes! I totally agree it’s a war with yourself! I got down to 138 lbs and felt good. Then I got off the wagon and started eating what a knew I shouldn’t and now I’m back up again. I’ve done that twice now and it’s so frustrating. Every day is a battle that right now I seem to be losing. Thanks for sharing your story.
Oh Cass, I totally feel you! Anyone who says weight loss surgery is taking the easy way out has no clue! I relate to everything you said. I had the lap band surgery a little over 9 years ago. I am down 130 pounds and about 25 pounds from my goal. My highest weight was 310. I finally decided to have the surgery when I found out I was going to be a grandma. I was determined to be healthy - to live to see my granddaughter grow up. I have had many troubles along the way, including a stroke, brain surgery and 3 months in ICU, but I’ve never given up. Neither have you! I’m am so proud of you. You have always been absolutely gorgeous, even at you heaviest. But you are a truly beautiful person - inside and out! May God guide you in your journey and May you continue to realize your worth and love yourself. Take care and God’s Blessings always ❤️
I had the sleeve done 4 years ago and I’m having trouble keeping my weight up 😮 never thought I’d EVER say that!! I went from 240 to 137ish, my goal was to be in the 150s and yeah right. I eat bad stuff too and try to gain that way and NOPE! Anyway, I’m so happy for you ❤ you look great and look so happy ❤❤❤
I love this video. And the end of it was hilarious, I was crying from laughing so hard. Sometimes I watch a video and think what a waste if my time, but this talk inspired me. Thank you. Also, I wanted to mention that you have a picture behind you that makes you look like an angel!!!
related to absolutely everything you said about a lifetime of self loathing due to weight stigma. Was just talking with someone two days ago about her gastric bypass surgery and am seriously considering it. Thanks for relating your experience. It’s a big decision and all input is gratefully received.
I can relate so much. I had my children back to back without losing the weight. I also tried everything to lose weight and decided to have weight loss surgery. My family was against it as well. I was 264 and lost about a 100lbs. That was 12 years ago. The weight started creeping up through the years and I started going to the gym and I was able to be at an ok weight. After the pandemic, my weight started to go up again, but not to where I was before the surgery. I have severe anemia, which I receive shots for. When asked if I regret weight loss surgery, no I don’t! Thank you so much for sharing your story, makes you so much more relatable. 💕
Thanks so much for this! I have struggle with my weight always and fell under the struggle bus 5 years ago with my lupus diagnosis. The pain prohibits weight loss, the pain makes you want comfort food and even when you eat well...you barely see a difference! It is so HARD. I appreciate hearing about your journey so much!
I absolutely love you! You just spoke all my thought. I had RNY a few years ago and have struggled with weight gain too. It's such a burden but I am learning to accept me no matter what I weigh.
Thank you for sharing my story. I had the same surgery 2002 and gained almost my original weight. You have encouraged me to change my brain to start eating healthy. Love your videos.
Congratulations! I had VSG and had the same mentality with slight regain. I've since regained it all over the 10 years post op. Slay it now while it's only 40#.
Those opinions do deep into your soul. Like the Sunday I didn’t feel like wearing Spanx and talking to PE and you see their gaze go down to your hips. It’s like the people you love the most and you feel alienated from them. It’s just the worst.
It's so sweet when you finally lose that unwanted weight. I lost 109 pounds (half the weight of a refrigerator) in less than 4 months and have kept it off since then. Just like every woman struggling with weight loss now, I yoyoed for years - staying on track for a month or 2, losing a few lbs in the process before falling off. And each time I fell off, I just gained the weight back plus more. In July 2021, I was at my heaviest - 255 lbs... See full story on my channel.
This made me cry hearing you say everything about how the obese toxic daily thoughts about yourself and the war in your head all day every day and how it impacts every thing you do every day bc I 10000% resonate with every word. My surgery date is June 11th and Ive been so so excited to get my life back and to just feel normal again and live my life again.
318 was my highest weight 19 yrs ago! I had Gastic Bypass and never a regret! Best thing ever! Went from size 26 to 14! Total of 146 pound lost!! Love it! BTW, I'm 5'8.
You are amazing. Thank you for sharing. You are beautiful at 120 and 220. I've been 115 and 200 at 5'4" I've done a diet for a week and then binge. I've stopped weighing myself and just listening to how I feel and how I feel in my clothes.
I feel you Cas!! When I was in elementary school, they called me "Big Beulah". I have struggled with my weight my entire life. I am 64 years old and have probably lost, and then regained, enough weight to make several people. The struggle is very real.😢
Thank you for sharing! I have been battling my weight my whole life and have decided to proceed with a Gastric Sleeve surgery. Everything you said about unsolicited advice, family not wanting you to get surgery and people thinking its a cop out/quick fix really resonates with me! I'm happy to hear after your hiccups in your journey you are still happy you had surgery and would do it again!
Today I really needed this video. I have been overweight/obese since childhood, and I can completely relate to your entire experience. As I listened to your words, I felt like it was me saying them. Thank you for making this video.
Thank you for sharing! I had the surgery 4 months ago. I feel like it’s going so slowly and I’m just waiting for things to go wrong. But… I’ve lost almost 70 lbs this year and I love seeing success stories. ❣️❣️
I can relate and for me it got to the point I didn’t lose a whole lot overall compared to other people. I’ve noticed that people that are extremely overweight tend to lose weight faster. Everyone’s body is different. I have seen people that have lost so much and I’ve seen people that it didn’t work for at all. Could you imagine after going through surgery to not see no results? In my experience, losing weight slowly left me with less lose skin. If you want to see faster results maybe exercising more can help. Everything is going to be fine, don’t stress. 70lbs is 70 lbs! That is amazing! Good Luck!
Hahaha Cas, I love you! Your review of that product is priceless! And thanks for being so real. I'm amazed at how you show your vulnerability on tough topics. Kudos on your hard work to stabalize your weight. Moderation is a tough skill to learn. I certainly haven't, yet. But I'll rewatch this when I need some inspiration. ♥
Thank you for sharing your story. As a fellow woman who has struggled with weight and feeling horrible about myself, it was so encouraging to hear someone else say it out loud and know that I’m not alone. You are a beautiful person not just on the outside - your beautiful, positive personality inspires me !
I hadn’t watched you for a while and saw you. Your voice was the same but you looked totally different. You go girl!! I had the sleeve surgery. It definitely is not a cheat. I’m so happy I had it.😎
You are such a lovely person! And so brave sharing your journey with us! I love your channel and I follow every video you make, including the mails you send! Thank you for being the person you are! We love you just for yourself and not for what you look like!
Congratulations.. you are amazing, and you look incredible! I relate so much to what you are saying about being obese, I have been a total yo-yo dieter my whole life. I’ve got so heavy now and my back is so bad there is so much I can’t do… but I’m 58 next month and dieting seems to becoming so difficult and less effective.. I am seriously thinking of doing this surgery…
Thank you for opening up about your experience and being you. Society is very unfair to women and our bodies. We all come in different sizes but if we don't fit into a certain mold we're considered unfavorable or letting us go. Thank you for being so relatable ❤️
Wow! I followed your channel and learned so much selling my house in summer 2021. Then my journey led me to addressing more on my weight. Sooooo I had lost and gained for years before I learned about needing the metabolic change from Bariatric surgery and had gastric sleeve inJune 2023. It’s all worth it and now you inspire me in more than one way. Congratulations and thank you !!!!
Cass I love you, you got this! Thank you for being so honest! I've been with you here since 2017 or 18 and laughed and cried and felt soooo soooo inspired. Take care of making you feel your best and happiest! 🥰
Thanks for sharing! I have been really encouraged by Jin Stephens and her books “Delay, Don’t Deny” or “Fast, Feast, Repeat”. Intermittent Fasting Stories podcast is so encouraging!
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Documenting my weight loss journey has been amazing. The Fun Fit Book's insights were crucial every step of the way.
Me personally, I started losing the most weight after reading the book Woman’s weight loss secrets: the unspoken truth, a few things you are mentioning in this video are also in the book
Oh neat!
My husband had gastric bypass surgery and I get so mad when people say it’s the easy way out. He’s lost a lot of weight, but he works at it every single day. I think it’s a very brave choice. You are an inspiration!
I have never been overweight in my entire life (in fact, I have struggled with the opposite problem), but even I can see that there is NOTHING easy about that! Asking for help and admitting that you're struggling with something that our society stigmatizes is not easy. Going through the process to get approved for the surgery, actually getting the surgery, recovering from major surgery and all of the lifestyle changes afterward is not easy. And dealing with other people's judgment certainly doesn't make it easy! I think he's incredibly brave and strong for taking that step, and I hope it has been a positive experience for him with (relatively) few side effects. I know recovery from that can be rough...
Yes! 20 years later after RNY I would do it again a thousand times! Everything you said is right on the money. I lost close to 200 pounds and I still fluctuate between 140 and 150. I’ll be 62 soon and have no health issues at all! You bring so much joy and fun to your videos and I love watching you!!
After a lifetime of judgment, it's hard to just decide to love yourself and not care what others think. Thanks for sharing your story. You're not alone 😊
I have tried for 30 years to get insurance approval to get weight loss surgery. I had given up and topped out at 286#.
Watching you go through your surgery inspired me to try again.
I am now 2 months post-op, down 56# from my all time high (35# since surgery).
Thank you for being my inspiration 💕
Congratulations!!
Thank you thank you for talking about this, sharing YOUR story, and making it OK to talk about this surgery. It should NOT be a shameful topic. So proud of you, and you are my inspiration! xoxo
If you are really looking for a diet that works, just google carls magic plan.
I haven't finished watching yet... But as a health care professional it just makes me so sad that a hospital supervised weight loss program was basically an endorsement of an eating disorder! You are beautiful through and through 💜
That’s rude.
@@Emkfry8020 I think you may have read that wrong. It wasn't malicious
My husband went through exactly the same program. Sure, he lost weight but it wrecked his metabolism. He put on so much weight again.
That was my exact thought! How on earth could any Dr recommend an all liquid 800 cal diet for an adult!? That's absurd! It makes me so sad that a medical professional would recommend that...
@@Emkfry8020 800 calories a day is very rude indeed.
I suffer with hoshimotos and I just had gastric bypass done for a lot of the same reasons as you Cass. It hasn't even been 2 months yet and I'm down 40lbs. You are amazing at everything you do Cass.
I have hashimotos as well, had a vsg in november. I am down 110 pounds and my thyroid levels are finally normal!
Rebecca watch out for gallstones following your bypass surgery. They are commonly linked
Boy…do I understand. I’m morbidly obese. My BMI is too high for me to have knee replacement surgery; talk about humiliation. Did this feeling last? No.
Girl, there’s a book in this. You are an inspiration to many, so please consider writing a book about your experience. Love you, my favourite TH-camr💜
*You are such a compassionate and empathetic woman!* I am so admiring of all you've achieved in spite of your challenges. Your passion and excellent work ethic has served you very well. God bless you always.🥰
This is by far the best weight loss journey story I have seen. So real, so honest and I feel like you are me minus the surgery part. Thank you for being real and articulating how so many of us feel. Congrats and thank you again.
Cas I know exactly how you feel. In 2002 - I had that same exact surgery. I went from 320 down to 125 in just about a year. It's something we still have to work on everyday but not like before the surgery. I have not had any soda or anything that is carbinated. I do stay away from sweets, carbs are my downfall, meat is very hard to eat. I would do my surgery over again! You keep up your good work and you are beautiful inside and out! - Love you!
Did you have a lot of loose skin?
@@blessedgirlsr5856 I was 47 at the time and went to the gym EVERYDAY it did help but yes I do have saggy skin in different areas but I am so much healthier I can do so much with our grandchildren and greatgrandchildren that I really don't think I would be alive today if I didn't have the surgery. I know it is not for all and like Cas's husband my husband didn't want me to do it as he thought I would die, but he is so happy now as we can be active and enjoy so much more than we did before the surgery In 2000 we went to the beach with our grandchildren and they wanted me to go horse back riding with them and I was over the weight limit. I swore at that point I was going to do everything I could to loose the weight so I would never have to tell them I couldn't do fun things with them. At that point I had never heard of bypass surgery - 2 years later I saw I believe one of the Wilson girls talking about it and at that point there was no stopping me. I was very lucky as my insurance paid 100 percent for it. I had to go thru 6 months of psychiatric evaluations and so many other evaluations that I can't remember. But now I can swim, run, and play with the little ones that I love so much and they will remember me when I'm gone because I was in their lives. I guess what I'm trying to say is loose skin is nothing compared to having a healthy life.
I had alot of skin loosen. But it all came back. Lol, if ya get my drift...I don't work out and wish I did! But, Cas is amazing for sharing her journey! I ❤️ her so much!
@@dianahegseth6279 thank you for replying and sharing your story with me. Thats my biggest fear but I can see the pros as well. Thanks sp much
I just have to say that your story at the end had me almost crying with laughter and pity. I used to be a nail-biter, and every once in awhile I revert back to my bad habits. Thanks for sharing! It was the perfect way to end the video that was so honest and genuine with some tough emotions.
"It's like sniff a cupcake and it's right on my butt"! 😂😂😂
I can super relate to this. I had PCOS and I could NOT lose weight! No matter what I tried. I was also struggling with infertility and decided to get RNY surgery in 2007. I'm so glad I did it! I was able to conceive and have 2 beautiful children!! I had to work super hard to lose weight after having my children. But since I had the surgery, it was actually possible. I don't know if people realize how impossible it is when your body is fighting you every step of the way!! You were beautiful before the surgery and I loved watching your channel back then. But, it is more than just the outside appearance. It is physically so hard to be overweight as well. Thank you for sharing your story!
Hi I've pcos too. May i know why did you choose rny?
😅😅😅😅😅😅😅
Thank you for sharing your journey. You are 100% right, it's like there's a war going on in your mind when you struggle with weight. I constantly find myself being judged/treated differently and it sickens me bc I know it's not "just in my head." I was teeny tiny skinny in my teens and 20s like size 4/6 but now that I am plus sized I can tell people treat me way differently. It's sad but true.
I loved this talk, I was diagnosed with hashimotos 6 years ago. My battle with weight has lasted my whole life, and like you said, those who have never fought that battle might not understand the disgust, the emotions and hate you battle with yourself. 4 months ago I had gastric bypass and have lost 70 pounds. It is definitely not the easy way out, but I would do it again over and over. I am grateful in this day and age we have the medical knowledge we do, although here in America mine was not covered by insurance!😬 Anyways, thank you for sharing your story!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Also in the U.S. and I am considering the same, as it feels as if I have fallen into quicksand. My insurance does not cover it either. May I ask the approximate cost and where you had it done? Please know you are not expected to answer if it makes you uncomfortable.
@@strll3048 I don't mind at all! It was 25 grand and I had it done with Mercy Health in Warren, Ohio since I live an hour from there. I had a great experience!
@@blessedmama1604 That is so very kind of you... Thank you, thank you, thank you.
You should read the book Hashimoto's Protocol by Izabella Wentz (I borrowed it from the library). Hashimotos effects so much more than just your weight and doctors have always told me that I will just always feel bad for the rest of my life and there's nothing that can be done about it, but that's not true.
@@commenter5901 Thank you......! I will try to find this right now.
I SO relate to this!! The internal war, the constant obsession over food & exercise, the depression & self-loathing. I dont have the option of surgery, but Im glad you found a solution that helps you love yourself.
Cass you inspired me....I've got my bariatric referral! Although I'm much older (51) and wish I had not let it get this bad. I was a firefighter for 5 yrs once! But you help me be more organized and inspire me so much!!!
I am waiting for my bariatric surgery as well. You were my inspiration and incentive to do something about it.
Best of luck Julia 🥰🙏🏼
I was 47 when I had my surgery, so you're not that much older (now I'm almost 52 😉)
I wish you the best! My mom had it done I think five years ago or so. It's been wonderful seeing her feel good about herself.
@@CraftTgurl How did you find it at that age? I'm 48 and 112kg and after a lifetime of doing everything I can to lose weight I'm wondering if it's time for surgery.
I suffered with anorexia from the age of 11 until age 22 (I’m 25 now) but it’s so interesting how you talk about the thought process you had because it was very similar to my thinking process while having an eating disorder. I think the main take away is that we all need to be content with the body God has given us and just focus on being healthy. Thank you for sharing your story Cass!!
Hope you’re better now
Oh my gosh. I was anorexic for more than 10 years. Now, I’m 230lbs!
I will say after decades of fluctuating, I will gladly be overweight instead of anorexic again. Of course, I’d like to be at a healthy weight. But, I wouldn’t go back to that hell for any weight!
she described binges which are common in disordered eating - and disordered eating is commonly associated with perfectionism and low self-esteem.
I was gonna say. Very similar. Terrified of what to put in your mouth, thinking about your body and losing weight every second of every day. Excessive exercises because of guilt. I used to be obese. Lost the first 20 kgs kinda healthily then slowly slipped into an ed. I was considered ana for a period of my life. I had the same mentality I did when I was obese it was terrifying but also it opened my eyes. It doesn’t matter how much I weigh it’s all in my head. I needed to learn to love my body and I am trying everyday to not pressure myself into losing or gaining and understand not to be hard on myself :)
Those of us who have struggled with weight & body issues since childhood can really relate to the freakin’ constant-ness of it. It is never not on your mind. You are exactly right that it impacts everything you do. It is exhausting. Thanks for sharing your journey!!
This was the most vulnerable I've seen you and I appreciate it so much. This is so many of us (there are several parallels with your story and my own). I've hit a crisis point with my health and weigh loss can cure much of it. Seeing how much you GET IT, and the fact that you've lost it, inspires me SO MUCH. Thank YOU.
Your journey is wonderful! Thank you for sharing ❤️ you are an inspiration! Not only for weight-loss but I have been ignoring my home for the last 7 years (I lost my son in a car accident) and just got into a major slump. I will have you know I spent the last weekend 3whole days in my basement cleaning!!! I filled a dumpster overflowing and a van full of donations! And I owe that to you, I would give you a huge hug if I could🤗 THANK YOU!
You are an inspiration Cas. I was thin until I hit my 30s and got married. Life, surgery, kids - it all happened and I find myself at 250 pounds. Your words are spot on .... every moment of every day, my thoughts and actions are tied to my weight. I hate that I let it define who I am .... and I always wonder if others are judging me because of my weight. Wishing you all the best as you tackle losing those pounds and leaving sugar in the rearview mirror!!
I had weight loss surgery (sleeve) in 2022. Best decision I’ve ever made. I’m 8 months out and am 90lbs down since my start (30lbs before surgery, 60since) it is NOT the easy way out. Cutting out part of your stomach and the mental reprogramming you go through is NOT easy. Super proud of you for doing what was best FOR YOU!
What a wonderful testament, thank you for sharing your journey!. Your rendition of your experiences will resonate with many, and as a physician I can tell you, you are spot on. About everything. What saddens me is how us, the medical community, have failed you, how we have failed all. I mean, I even failed myself. OBESITY IS NOT A CHOICE. And until we are all able to understand this, we will not be able to overcome it. Obesity is a complex medical condition, a metabolic derangement, and should be recognized and treated as such. It has little to do with will power, motivation and self worth, and yet it deeply affects all these. We have failed to address this medically as the metabolic.condition it really is. So it saddens me that you had to endure that 3 month long torture of very low.calorie diet, that ended setting you up for regain and disappointment. Bariatric surgery is most definitely a viable tool and option for many. And just like you said, it is NOT an easy or simple "way out". It is the most effective treatment that we have for the management of obesity and I believe it is being underutilized. But notice I said for the MANAGEMENT of Obesity, not the CURE of obesity. And this is the missing piece. We are failing our post bariatric patients by not emphasizing that having the surgery is ONE of part of the treatment modalities in the management of obesity. That surgery should be part of a comprehensive approach to the management of obesity and part of a treatment plan that should last for a lifetime, along with nutritional education, formulating sustainable exercise/movement/physical activity, addressing mental health and working on our mindset and limiting beliefs that got us to this place, and addressing and preventing regain by having close medical follow up, monitoring, including blood work, and treatment, including adding medications that help with weight maintenance and help prevent or minimize weight regain. This is all possible. But most of us are not doing this. I often explain this to patients in this context: in patients with diabetes, for example, do we tell them to stop their regularly scheduled follow up appointments and blood work once they are well-controlled? Do we stop their medications once they have achieved the treatment goals? Do we just stop everything and send them on their way with a farewell and good luck??!! NO WE DON'T!! But yet this is what we do with our patients suffering from obesity. And notice my choice of words here. We HAVE obesity. We are NOT Obesity and thus we should not define ourselves as obese but instead that we have obesity. I myself have struggled with obesity throughout my life and finally decided to proceed with bariatric surgery. It changed my life and my practice of medicine. The research I did, personally, prior to having the surgery (this is typically NOT common knowledge among physicians) is what enlightened me and prompted me to seek board certification in Obesity Medicine and is now my driving force into transitioning to practice solely in this field. I am making it my life mission to promote this awareness and to making myself available to people like us that need this guidance from a licensed physician. It is my dream and currently striving for it. Thank you, thank you, thank you, for using your platform to create awareness, by being vulnerable enough to share your story. I absolutely commend you for it!! BTW, I am a super fan and am addicted to your videos and teachings 🥰 kudos! And hugs!!!
Thank you so very much for leaving your comment. There are no words to describe how much of a failure an overweight person feels when they try everything and yet the weight hangs on. People think it's a lack of self control or just laziness. You are judged by others including the very doctors that you seek help from. The deep pain so many of us feel is truly heartbreaking ing. Thank you again for your insightful words.
@@dena61965 I feel your words in my core. We need to do better. I commit to this. ❤
@@ailismarrero3445 You are amazing. We need a world full of people just like you. I'm fighting many chronic issues including trigeminal neuralgia and back problems that has kept me homebound for 5 years. I'm 5 lbs in the so called BMI obese category. 5 stupid pounds. I would love to just get into the overweight category. I'm so tired of my doc telling me just stop eating fried foods even though I've repeatedly explained that I don't eat them at all. I live on a soft food diet. When your overweight and say you have tried so hard but can't lose it doctors look at you like you are lying. I had a doctor tell me once that since my husband was fairly thin and I'm cooking for him then I must be eating everything in the house. 😥. I'm sorry this is so long and you may never get to read it but I wanted you to know how very much YOU are appreciated. Now you go out there and continue your mission and please help us to no longer feel like a total useless failure.
Thanks so much for adding your insightful comments. I got as much out of reading this as I did from Cass’ inspiring video! I’m in the process of preparing for surgery in 4 months & I’m still to decide on RNY or Gastric Sleeve. I feel lucky to have found a surgeon & the team who work for him, who seem as understanding as yourself. I was wondering after my appointment yesterday why I felt so at ease at this doctors offices-this was literally the most relaxing place I’d been to & I realised it was because I felt absolutely no judgment about my weight! It shocks me how accustomed I have become to experiencing judgement EVERYWHERE I go, including when I go to other doctors clinics. Thank you so much for the wonderful work you are doing to help people with obesity-it heartens me to read your kind words and even more because you are a physician.
I'm confused?! How (in most cases) is obesity not a choice?? I too was told I had a "thyroid " problem, I was 315lbs 40yrs old and hurt all over!! I was lazy!!! Once I started moving I lost 100lbs in 3 months racking leave everyday for 1 summer, no diet changes, just moving!! That was my choice!! Once I stopped doing that I gained it all back, again it was the choices... I made! It was a bad choice, but nevertheless, There IS always a choice.
Oh Cass I know this struggle. You have described my whole life. Yes my smallest was 159. and I felt great. I have put back on 35 lbs. I am almost 6 years since my surgery. I have been beating myself up over the gain. I am terrified I am going to be 300lbs again.
I love you, Cas. Thanks for always being so genuine & sharing your heart!
I came here to say this only I didn't have the words. Genuine is PERFECT and sharing yourself so unapologetically. I also love you Cas!
I have no words to describe how amazing you are. It doesn’t matter what the topic is but you are so real and relatable. It is inspiring. Because the things I’ve watched you for, the organizing, cleaning and weight issues. All of them are from such a personal place that the main strain advice can sometimes make you feel worse and results in circle of challenges. But you say things so real. You can tell that, not only you have been through it, but you don’t want other people to go through these same awful things. So I find myself going “yea, that’s right, I can do this!” And actually doing them. Please don’t ever stop your positive, funny, motivating messages.
Girl! Same!! I was just diagnosed with Hashimotos in January. I'm working with a physician to get my health on track. It's so hard!! I feel you.
I’m crying as I watch this. I know how you feel. My daughter had weightloss surgery and I am on Mounjaro for weight loss.
I’m so grateful for you talking about this ❤ I have ballooned, lost, ballooned , lost. It’s been a life long struggle.
Thank you for this post. I'm 275lbs and literally feel like I'm dying. I'm type 2 diabetic and severely insulin resistant so I take a mass amount of insulin. The more insulin you take the more weight you gain. The more weight you gain the more insulin you have to take. I'm in a no win situation and to big to exercise. I'm scheduled for weight loss surgery but in the US it can take up to 6 months for approval. I'm scared to death of the surgery but I can't live like this any longer. You gave me so much relief and inspiration. I can do this! Thank you!!
Please read Dr Jason Fung's book "The Obesity Code" or "Life in the Fasting Lane." It will be so encouraging for you. It is not your fault that you have gained weight. You are exactly right that it is the insulin resistance. Maybe you could ask your doctor if intermittent fasting could help you while you wait for your surgery?
If you like to read, I highly recommend you check out the book "proteinaholic" by Dr Garth Davis. He's a bariatric surgeon and talks about using a whole food plant-based diet before bariatric surgery as well as it being a successful tool to lose weight after the surgery and to keep it off rather than rebounding ❤️❤️❤️
My husband is almost 500lb and currently giving weight watchers coupled with trauma therapy a try. But I'm scared that it's too big a mountain to climb without surgical help. (We've on and off been trying to help him with his weight since we met 15 years ago.) But I have been following Cas for 6 years and it showed me how hard and complication-full weight loss surgery is. I want to grow old with my husband and I am so scared to lose him. Cas is right that being overweight affects every aspect of his life. He is constantly judged for his weight, he barely has the energy to interact with our children. I'm not sure what the right move is.
You got this!! I had it 15 years ago when I was 245, I have maintained 140-155 (I’m 5’8). It was the best thing I’ve ever done for myself 💕
OMG...your video was like watching my gastric bypass experience unfold in front of me. I had my RNY surgery in Oct 2019 as well. Best decision I ever made but almost 3 years later, my confidence is disappearing after gaining 30lbs. I’m working on losing the weight I gained and feel inspired watching your journey. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you Cass, you made me cry…..I had never heard anyone express so eloquently the way I feel about my weight! Love ya! I’m so happy for you!! Keep it up, you can do this!! ❤️❤️
Thank you for sharing. I’ve had the gastric bypass surgery 15 years ago and I gave gained about 40 lbs. yes I too will do it again if given the chance. Again thanks for sharing! 💙
Thank you for sharing this. I've always struggled with my body image, and find myself struggling with it now more than ever at age 47. A war against yourself is the best way to describe it. I'm so glad you've found some peace and are starting to heal.
I just love your honesty. I wish more people on TH-cam would be like you, speaking the truth even when it's hard in order to help others. You are a beautiful human being!!
*Thank you for motivating others to pursue their health goals and showing that it's possible to make incredible changes with determination and consistency.*
When you talked about the need to lose weight being a WAR in our minds constantly, that is soooo true. I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels that way.
Oh Cass, You're so serious in the beginning, but hilarious in the end.
I can relate to your weight loss issues. I'm sure your story will inspire others, thank you for sharing.
Regarding the nail biting concoction, I should get it and put it on my freezer door handle so I stay out of the ice cream. Hmm, a weight loss product???
'Love you
You can’t even imagine how close to home this is to me…..thank you so much for sharing this incredibly difficult topic!! Thanks for being an inspiration and using the words that are so painfully difficult for many of us to be able to hear let alone speak the words!! To literally speak Half these words for many, are not even in our vocabulary!!! 💕🤗
Also…biter be gone….my 13 year old daughter heard this video…..and totally wants this product- 😳 YIKES!!! 😆
Thank you for being so transparent about your weight loss journey. I have fought the battle for decades. Still am.
THANK YOU!! You explained the feelings of being overweight so well. I'm the heaviest that I've ever been, the struggle is real and I hate going shopping, I wanted to go to a jewellery store and I talked myself out of it thinking about how people might judge me and the ring I wanted to buy because I'm so overweight. I really appreciate that you took the time and put your story out there for everyone to understand 💕
Thanks so much for this video! Your story mirrors my own, from the pre-surgery emotions to the post-surgery euphoria. I am now one year post gastric bypass, and I've experienced some minor regain, but I still need to lose about 30 pounds, so I don't want to go in the wrong direction! After watching your video, I feel encouraged to keep moving toward my goal!
Oh my gosh you could be telling my story. I had the sleeve surgery on Christmas Eve 2019 so I too am coming up on my 3 year anniversary. I lost 80 lbs but have gained 20 back. I now have 70 pounds to lose to get to my goal. I love that you are so open about your journey!
Congrats on your surgery and thanks for sharing your story! After a lifetime of diets, I had WLS over a decade ago and lost over 110 pounds. It's the best thing I ever did. There's no "wrong" way to lose weight. And statistically speaking our chances of keeping the weight off long term are highest after surgery.
I felt like you were telling my story! This is everything I've gone through since I was a child. I remember the health nurse at school telling me I was a "solid girl" when I had one of the health checks they made us stand in line for. I was a very athletic teenager but always larger than any of my friends. You give me hope! I, too, had GBS, and I'm sorry to say I gained all but 50 lbs of my weight back. Thank you for your honesty and transparency! You get me!
You still though have kept 50 pounds off. I am proud of you!
❤️As a long time super-fan of Casssndra’s compassionate & fun ADD & decluttering advice, I started this video out of curiosity. By the end I was in tears. Church kind of tears. For the love & acceptance & hope she spreads all over the place.
🥰🤗😭🫶
Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I always appreciate your honesty & realness. I felt this on every level & I too had a BMI of 41. I am 5 weeks post-op from gastric sleeve surgery, down 35lbs. I still have 85lbs to lose to reach a healthy BMI.
I am 9 days post-of from VSG and down 17 lbs. It’s been going great and I’m doing great. Love seeing this and the struggles you went through. I am definitely seeing it as a tool and not the magic fix. I’m excited to see where I am in a year from now. Great job on your success! 🥰
Those curls in your hairstyle in this vid really suit you! You have such a pretty face Cass, and I’ve always noticed that about you at all your different weights. Thank you for sharing your journey xx
Thanks so much for sharing, Cass! In the past 8 months, I have taken off 55 lbs. My "why" had everything to do with it. I lost my best friend who had diabetes FOR DECADES (I never knew for at least 15 of those years and our favourite activities usually involved cheesecake and large tubs of buttery popcorn at the movies). She never took it seriously. Well, as they say, everything is fine...UNTIL IT ISN'T. She had other health issues, but a heart attack in January 2020 changed everything and I watched her slowly deteriorate until her death in 2021. The very next day, I walked into a weight-loss clinic (in Ontario). It was the BEST decision I've ever made! It was strict, intrusive at times (lots of monitoring), and very expensive! But I had money saved for travel and I wasn't able to do any of that, so it was money well spent. I started maintenance this past May and so far, so good...but I'm nervous! I get a weekly "cheat meal" -- it gives me something to look forward to! I have mixed feelings with the "love yourself" trend towards weight that is predominant these days, mainly because I am older and at the end of the day, I want my remaining "golden years" to be filled with activity and independence. You look amazing and I LOVE your channel!
So raw. Thank you so much, Cass! What we go through can’t be beneficial to others if we don’t share it.
Thank you for sharing your story. As someone who struggles with her weight, I appreciate how real you are about it. Also, your story at the end -- horrific but hilarious!!
Thank you for sharing your story with us! I’ve watched your experience while you went through this. Almost 2 years ago I started on a weight loss journey of my own. I started doing a program and it was the only thing that ever worked for me. I lost 55 pounds in 5 and a half months and 40 inches overall. I couldn’t believe how much better I felt. I had energy that I hadn’t had in years. Then I went off program, I maintained and then I wasn’t. Okay gained 20 pounds back. I am back on program and this time it’s not as easy but slowly the weight is coming off. This time I am working on the mental aspect that I should have done the first time 😊 Slowly I am taking steps towards a healthier version of me!
I was in this adorable boutique and saw a top. The shop owner was like honey, that’s not your size! I as like, huh? She says this is our extended sizes. Your size is over there in the standard size section. I was still like, huh?? Me? Standard size? Oh yeah, I was no longer in a plus size, I was in a size 10. Hadn’t been that size since high school 😂
What program? I lost 30 pounds in 4 months in 2020 and gained 11 back. I really should lose at least that for my health's sake. I'm 54.
@@saintinlower48 I am on a program called Optavia 5 and 1. It’s pricey but effective!
Body Dysmorphic Disorder - common when you've been heavy your whole life. You don't realize that you don't have to shop in the W side of the store any longer.
@@PowerToolsWithThread I am the opposite. I was always thin and am now heavy. My mind still thinks I am thin and then I look in the mirror.
@@triciac1019
I can relate. Up to age 30 I was a normal weight.
Since then my weight has steadily increased up & up! So when I see photos I get shocked at how big I am now. 😧😰 Now in my mid 60s.
Where I live even though there is "universal" (not really - lots of co-payments!!)
Government funded health care, bariatric surgeon is Not available if one is over 55! (could be 50)? VERY! Age discriminatory I think!!
Best thing I ever did was reading the book Woman’s weight loss secrets: the unspoken truth, after applying the knowledge I got from the book I feel like the cellulite is magically disappearing from my body
You are a month ahead of me. I had sleeve surgery in November 2019. 5'4" 227 highest. I'm now at 148. Lowest was 128.8. Most of the regain happened in January due to a massive hormonal shift. I know myself and know not to pick up sugar or carbs (that will turn my carb monster back on in a heartbeat.)...so that's not been the problem for me. Being post menopausal is...plus being able to eat more now...and NOT exercising. Anyhoo...good luck to both of us on getting back to that 135-140 goal weight. :) Like you, I would still do it all again!
We can do it!
@@Clutterbug You can do it. It was the hardest thing I've ever done, nearly died from complications due to unknown deformities, I would do it again tomorrow! I had it in 2001, weighed 280 lbs lost 160 and have gained back all but 60lbs. I know I can get it back off, it's the food I eat that's non painful and fast. Im trying to Stay away from the sugar and carbs, forever our enemy's! Protein, protein, protein!
Proud of you for sharing your story... skinny people just don't get it.
"a daily battle against yourself" - that's an excellent description - thanks for sharing your journey.
My pleasure!
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I have been overweight for most of my life and relate to so many parts of your story. You have always been an inspiration to me-whether it’s cleaning and organizing or sharing this journey. I wish you continued success in all areas of your life.
So proud of you, Cas. Making longterm changes to improve your life is hard! You have to make that choice to commit to yourself so many times every day. Thank you for sharing your journey with us!
Thank you for the story! It was great having the update. I remember you going thru this. I had my RNY in 2009 and people told me the same things... I was taking the easy way out! Just do it right on your own. Be strong. Determined, etc. Without the surgery, I wouldn't be alive today! I lost 170 pounds. It is NOT the easy way though.... it is only a tool! You have to change you whole way of eating, or you will gain weight back!!! I have maintained about 140-150 pounds lose!
I had surgery a year a go and it is so nice to hear someone else though process around it because I often feel so alone in this. And it’s not easy but totally worth it
Sounds almost exactly like my weight loss story. I had rny April of 2021. I've lost 115 lbs & I can eat more now than I could a year ago & it scares me. I'm afraid of waking up & gaining all my weight back. I too could have never lost it all on my own. I tried for many years. It's totally saved my life & I too would do it all again. Thanks for sharing your story!
As I sit here taking my morning blood sugars and logging my daily weight for my medically monitored keto program I COMPLETELY identified with this! Therapy, reiki and whatever else it takes to get my food addiction under control. We are in this together and we will win one way or another.
I just celebrated my 7 month anniversary for my sleeve gastrectomy. I was like you, I just couldn't lose weight and got up to 309 lbs. I finally decided on surgery even though I thought it was the "easy" way. I agree, it's not the easy way out. My diabetes doctor tried for years to get me to do this but I just wasn't ready. I''m so glad I did cause I've lost 98 lbs so far. Congrats to you on your weight loss.
As a dietitian I will say the key is lifestyle change. You have to make healthy eating your life. Even with weight loss surgery you can gain the weight back. You can’t cheat the habit changes.
It most definitely is a daily battle. Sometimes, it feels like an hourly battle. You have accomplished so very much. Congratulations! Battle on!
Yes! I totally agree it’s a war with yourself! I got down to 138 lbs and felt good. Then I got off the wagon and started eating what a knew I shouldn’t and now I’m back up again. I’ve done that twice now and it’s so frustrating. Every day is a battle that right now I seem to be losing. Thanks for sharing your story.
Oh Cass, I totally feel you! Anyone who says weight loss surgery is taking the easy way out has no clue! I relate to everything you said. I had the lap band surgery a little over 9 years ago. I am down 130 pounds and about 25 pounds from my goal. My highest weight was 310. I finally decided to have the surgery when I found out I was going to be a grandma. I was determined to be healthy - to live to see my granddaughter grow up. I have had many troubles along the way, including a stroke, brain surgery and 3 months in ICU, but I’ve never given up. Neither have you! I’m am so proud of you. You have always been absolutely gorgeous, even at you heaviest. But you are a truly beautiful person - inside and out! May God guide you in your journey and May you continue to realize your worth and love yourself. Take care and God’s Blessings always ❤️
I had the sleeve done 4 years ago and I’m having trouble keeping my weight up 😮 never thought I’d EVER say that!! I went from 240 to 137ish, my goal was to be in the 150s and yeah right. I eat bad stuff too and try to gain that way and NOPE! Anyway, I’m so happy for you ❤ you look great and look so happy ❤❤❤
I love this video. And the end of it was hilarious, I was crying from laughing so hard. Sometimes I watch a video and think what a waste if my time, but this talk inspired me. Thank you. Also, I wanted to mention that you have a picture behind you that makes you look like an angel!!!
🤣 She stands directly in front of it because otherwise it looks like a butthole. 😂
related to absolutely everything you said about a lifetime of self loathing due to weight stigma. Was just talking with someone two days ago about her gastric bypass surgery and am seriously considering it. Thanks for relating your experience. It’s a big decision and all input is gratefully received.
I can relate so much. I had my children back to back without losing the weight. I also tried everything to lose weight and decided to have weight loss surgery. My family was against it as well. I was 264 and lost about a 100lbs. That was 12 years ago. The weight started creeping up through the years and I started going to the gym and I was able to be at an ok weight. After the pandemic, my weight started to go up again, but not to where I was before the surgery. I have severe anemia, which I receive shots for. When asked if I regret weight loss surgery, no I don’t! Thank you so much for sharing your story, makes you so much more relatable. 💕
Thanks so much for this! I have struggle with my weight always and fell under the struggle bus 5 years ago with my lupus diagnosis. The pain prohibits weight loss, the pain makes you want comfort food and even when you eat well...you barely see a difference! It is so HARD. I appreciate hearing about your journey so much!
I absolutely love you! You just spoke all my thought. I had RNY a few years ago and have struggled with weight gain too. It's such a burden but I am learning to accept me no matter what I weigh.
Thank you for sharing my story. I had the same surgery 2002 and gained almost my original weight. You have encouraged me to change my brain to start eating healthy. Love your videos.
Congratulations! I had VSG and had the same mentality with slight regain. I've since regained it all over the 10 years post op. Slay it now while it's only 40#.
Those opinions do deep into your soul. Like the Sunday I didn’t feel like wearing Spanx and talking to PE and you see their gaze go down to your hips. It’s like the people you love the most and you feel alienated from them. It’s just the worst.
I have been following you while you were still heavy. Thanks for talking about the surgery and your feelings on this journey.
It's so sweet when you finally lose that unwanted weight. I lost 109 pounds (half the weight of a refrigerator) in less than 4 months and have kept it off since then. Just like every woman struggling with weight loss now, I yoyoed for years - staying on track for a month or 2, losing a few lbs in the process before falling off. And each time I fell off, I just gained the weight back plus more. In July 2021, I was at my heaviest - 255 lbs... See full story on my channel.
I am beginning my journey to weight loss surgery... I love hearing everyone's stories.
Plz, before u go there, listen to Dr. Fung, Dr. Berry and Dr. Peltz…u might find another way.
This made me cry hearing you say everything about how the obese toxic daily thoughts about yourself and the war in your head all day every day and how it impacts every thing you do every day bc I 10000% resonate with every word. My surgery date is June 11th and Ive been so so excited to get my life back and to just feel normal again and live my life again.
Good luck! I had mine in January and I don't regret it!
318 was my highest weight 19 yrs ago! I had Gastic Bypass and never a regret! Best thing ever! Went from size 26 to 14! Total of 146 pound lost!! Love it!
BTW, I'm 5'8.
You are amazing. Thank you for sharing. You are beautiful at 120 and 220. I've been 115 and 200 at 5'4" I've done a diet for a week and then binge. I've stopped weighing myself and just listening to how I feel and how I feel in my clothes.
I feel you Cas!! When I was in elementary school, they called me "Big Beulah". I have struggled with my weight my entire life. I am 64 years old and have probably lost, and then regained, enough weight to make several people. The struggle is very real.😢
Thank you for sharing! I have been battling my weight my whole life and have decided to proceed with a Gastric Sleeve surgery. Everything you said about unsolicited advice, family not wanting you to get surgery and people thinking its a cop out/quick fix really resonates with me! I'm happy to hear after your hiccups in your journey you are still happy you had surgery and would do it again!
Thank you Cass. I had gastric bypass 6 days ago and you put my feelings into the perfect words 💛 Love you!
Today I really needed this video. I have been overweight/obese since childhood, and I can completely relate to your entire experience. As I listened to your words, I felt like it was me saying them. Thank you for making this video.
Thank you for sharing! I had the surgery 4 months ago. I feel like it’s going so slowly and I’m just waiting for things to go wrong. But… I’ve lost almost 70 lbs this year and I love seeing success stories. ❣️❣️
I can relate and for me it got to the point I didn’t lose a whole lot overall compared to other people. I’ve noticed that people that are extremely overweight tend to lose weight faster. Everyone’s body is different. I have seen people that have lost so much and I’ve seen people that it didn’t work for at all. Could you imagine after going through surgery to not see no results? In my experience, losing weight slowly left me with less lose skin. If you want to see faster results maybe exercising more can help. Everything is going to be fine, don’t stress. 70lbs is 70 lbs! That is amazing! Good Luck!
@@ybc1214 you're totally right!
Thanks for being so transparent. It is HARD. I appreciate your insight and willingness to talk about weight and surgery.
Hahaha Cas, I love you! Your review of that product is priceless! And thanks for being so real. I'm amazed at how you show your vulnerability on tough topics. Kudos on your hard work to stabalize your weight. Moderation is a tough skill to learn. I certainly haven't, yet. But I'll rewatch this when I need some inspiration. ♥
Thank you for sharing your story. As a fellow woman who has struggled with weight and feeling horrible about myself, it was so encouraging to hear someone else say it out loud and know that I’m not alone. You are a beautiful person not just on the outside - your beautiful, positive personality inspires me !
I hadn’t watched you for a while and saw you. Your voice was the same but you looked totally different. You go girl!! I had the sleeve surgery. It definitely is not a cheat. I’m so happy I had it.😎
You are such a lovely person! And so brave sharing your journey with us! I love your channel and I follow every video you make, including the mails you send! Thank you for being the person you are! We love you just for yourself and not for what you look like!
Congratulations.. you are amazing, and you look incredible! I relate so much to what you are saying about being obese, I have been a total yo-yo dieter my whole life. I’ve got so heavy now and my back is so bad there is so much I can’t do… but I’m 58 next month and dieting seems to becoming so difficult and less effective.. I am seriously thinking of doing this surgery…
Thank you for opening up about your experience and being you. Society is very unfair to women and our bodies. We all come in different sizes but if we don't fit into a certain mold we're considered unfavorable or letting us go. Thank you for being so relatable ❤️
You are an inspiration! Thank you for sharing!
Wow! I followed your channel and learned so much selling my house in summer 2021. Then my journey led me to addressing more on my weight. Sooooo I had lost and gained for years before I learned about needing the metabolic change from Bariatric surgery and had gastric sleeve inJune 2023. It’s all worth it and now you inspire me in more than one way. Congratulations and thank you !!!!
Cass I love you, you got this! Thank you for being so honest! I've been with you here since 2017 or 18 and laughed and cried and felt soooo soooo inspired. Take care of making you feel your best and happiest! 🥰
Thanks for sharing! I have been really encouraged by Jin Stephens and her books “Delay, Don’t Deny” or “Fast, Feast, Repeat”. Intermittent Fasting Stories podcast is so encouraging!